For pickling liquid, in a small saucepan combine vinegar, water, sugar, and the 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to boiling; reduce heat and boil gently, uncovered, for 5 minutes.

2.

Cut tomatoes into 1/4-inch-thick slices. In a large saucepan cook tomatoes and the 1 teaspoon salt, covered, in a small amount of boiling water for 1 minute. Drain; rinse with cold water. Drain well; transfer to three hot, clean half-pint jars. In each jar, place 1 teaspoon of the dill seed and, if desired, 1 or 2 serrano peppers. Pour hot pickling liquid over tomatoes, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace. Seal and refrigerate overnight or up to 2 weeks. Makes 3 half-pint jars.

Note

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Hot peppers contain volatile oils that can burn eyes, lips, and sensitive skin. Please wear plastic gloves while working with peppers and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterward.